⏱ 2 min read
A 44-year-old Florida woman orchestrated a brazen COVID-19 relief program scam, swindling $465,489 from lenders. Jane Batista submitted fake Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications for herself, her husband, and two businesses, claiming fictional employees and revenue.
From April 2020 to August 2021, Batista lied about everything from employee income to tax returns, all in an attempt to cash in on the pandemic relief funds. She even submitted forged documents to support her claims.
After the lenders funded the loans, Batista used the money for personal expenses and made large transfers, including one for $15,000. Her scheme finally unraveled, and on October 1, 2024, Batista pleaded guilty in Newark federal court.
U.S. District Judge Evelyn Padin sentenced Batista to 18 months in prison and ordered her to forfeit the $465,489 she stole. The judge also imposed a two-year term of supervised release.
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📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Defendant: New Jersey
- Location: NJ
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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